As your pet begins to age, you’re going to notice some signs that things are not as they used to be. This can be terrifying, and you may feel anxious and overwhelmed.
However, you can’t get all caught up in your feelings. You have to think about your pet and how you will make them happy and comfortable as they begin to age. Here are some tips for taking care of your senior dog so that they can live out their old years comfortably.
How to Care for a Senior Dog: Consider Nutrition
Good nutrition is critical when you are taking care of your senior pet. You’re going to notice that their metabolism starts to slow down. You may begin to see weight gain, and it’s something that you need to nip in the bud. The last thing you want is for your pet to be carrying some extra pounds that can help bring on certain diseases.
The best way to alleviate this is to make sure that you give your senior dog a diet specially formulated for older dogs. You can give them dog hip and joint chews to help make their joints supple.
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Mental Stimulation
Senior dogs require a lot of mental stimulation, and you must ensure you give it to them. They may not be as energetic as young pups, but they still need regular exercise and fun activities that help to keep them mentally robust whenever possible.
Of course, you have to tailor what you are doing to fit your dog. Older dogs may not be able to walk as often or run as far as a young puppy.
You have to work around this by giving them shorter walks and trying low-impact exercises such as swimming. There are also mentally stimulating activities that you can throw at them, such as puzzle toys, that will help to keep their minds as active as possible.
Visit the Vet Regularly
Your senior pet must start visiting the vet more often. Constant veterinarian care is a must, and it can save your pet a lot of agony in the long run. The more you discuss your vet care and ensure that you are on top of vaccinations and dental care, the better your pet’s health will be.
Also, the more likely it is that your dog will live a more fulfilling senior lifestyle.
It would be best if you were observant when it comes to your pet. It doesn’t matter what others may say about your vigilance. Let them classify you as a mother hen if they want to. You must be strict with your pets’ health. Always rush them off to the vet if you notice the first signs of health trouble.
Getting your senior dog looking and feeling their best can feel like a challenge like no other you have faced. You may feel as if you are trying to climb a mountain that has lots of peaks and valleys that may keep you tripping. You just have to hang in there, and you will get through the winter of your pet’s life.
